Duenas, where your child lives, is a small farming village located at the foot of one of Guatemala's active volcanoes, Fuego (Fire). The fertile ground around the village allows for the cultivation of roses and coffee, two of Guatemala's largest exports. Most of the families in this area live in one or two room wooden or adobe houses with tin roofs. Electricity is available to those who can afford it. Running water is available - however, most homes do not have indoor plumbing. Public education is available for those who can afford it and consider education of value. Life in Duenas is quiet and sometimes difficult. 

Hello! My full name is Estuardo Gamaliel Gomez Sanail, and I am so happy to tell you a little about my life. I was born on November 1, 2015. Thankfully, I am a healthy 9-year-old boy. I am in third grade and I like playing ball, painting, and dancing in my spare time. My favorite color is blue, and for my meals, I love having fried chicken. Dogs are lovely, so I like them very much. Actually, I have an adorable one at home. Now, let me tell you about my parents. My father’s name is Esvin Estuardo Gomez Ordonez. He makes a living as a day laborer on a farm here in Duenas town. My mother’s name is Karen Indalecia Sanail Jerez. She does a great job as a housewife and takes care of my youngest brother and me. I only have one brother. I beg you to pray for his recovery. He had left-sided paralysis about six months ago. My parents are taking him to therapy so he can walk and talk well again.  

We are members of a Christian Church called Aposento Alto. We are grateful to the farm owners because they allow us to live on a piece of their farm. The house is made of tin sheets with dirt and concrete floors. It has two rooms and a separate kitchen. We share the house with two other families and my grandfather. My family and I only use one room. Fortunately, we have electricity and running water. The three families gather money to pay for the services at the end of each month. I ask you to pray for provision for my family. Our priorities are food and school supplies for me. We live about 15 minutes from the feeding program. My brother and I usually get there on foot. We sometimes ride a bike to get there fast. It is time to say goodbye, but I want you to know that my mom and I were glad to provide all this information to LW just for you. See you later! 

Best wishes for you,  

Estuardo Gamaliel Gomez Sanail 

Translated by: Hillary Popol, AAC Secretary / Antigua Guatemala